REGIONAL MIGRATION REACHES NEW RECORD

Australia's shift towards regional living has reached a new high, with the latest Regional Movers Index recording its strongest result since tracking began.

The index, compiled by the Regional Australia Institute and Commonwealth Bank, found people moving from capital cities to regional areas outnumbered those heading in the opposite direction by almost 30 per cent during the March quarter.

Regional Australia Institute chief executive Liz Ritchie says the trend has remained remarkably consistent despite economic challenges including inflation, housing pressures and labour shortages.

Sydney and Melbourne continue to account for most regional departures, although Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide are also contributing a growing share of movers.

The Sunshine Coast remained Australia's most popular regional destination, while Toowoomba recorded the strongest year-on-year growth in migration from capital cities.

Commonwealth Bank's Kylie Allen says the figures highlight growing confidence in regional Australia and are creating new opportunities for businesses investing to support larger populations and expanding local economies.